A resident of Kalix, northern Sweden, reports unusually early spring sightings of yellowhammer and European goldfinch amid an “odd winter/spring,” and is feeding the birds to help them cope.
Early sightings of migratory birds in southwest Finland, including bean and greylag geese, suggest milder winter conditions and highlight the impact of climate change on traditional migratory patterns.
Flocks of whooper swans have been grazing in a field in southwestern Finland, although these swans don't typically return to Finland until March or April, according to Finland’s environment administration.
Some migrant birds are already flocking to the north, but a cold snap may delay more returns.
A golden plover, traditionally believed to announce the arrival of spring in Iceland, was spotted in Stokkseyri on March 28, a little later than usual. They spends the winter as far south as North Africa, returning north to breed.
Early spring and early waterfowl
Observations From Members 